The Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAE), in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), has opened applications for the 2026/2027 Postgraduate Scholarship Award Scheme for qualified Nigerian graduates seeking advanced studies locally and overseas.
The scholarship programme, implemented under the NNPC/NAE Production Sharing Contract (PSC), is part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative aimed at developing skilled manpower in key sectors relevant to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
According to details released by the company, applications must be submitted through the official portal on or before May 7, 2026, while shortlisted candidates will participate in a Computer-Based Test scheduled for May 30, 2026, using a remote online proctoring system.
Two study categories available
The postgraduate scholarship award is divided into two major categories designed to support both local and international education.
The Overseas Category provides funding for successful candidates to study at reputable universities outside Nigeria, while the Local Category supports postgraduate study at recognised Nigerian universities.
Officials said the scholarship covers major academic expenses, including tuition fees, books, accommodation, field trips, living expenses, and return economy airfare for selected overseas candidates undertaking a one-year master’s degree programme.
Eligibility requirements outlined
To qualify for the scholarship scheme, applicants must meet several academic and personal requirements.
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Second-Class Upper Division bachelor’s degree from a recognised Nigerian university and must have secured admission into either a Nigerian or foreign university for a one-year master’s degree programme.
Applicants are also required to have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme and must not be above 28 years of age by December 31, 2026.
For candidates applying under the overseas category, possession of a valid international passport with at least one year of validity from September 2026 is mandatory.
The company further clarified that employees of NAE and its affiliate companies, as well as previous beneficiaries of similar scholarships, are not eligible to apply.
Priority disciplines identified
The scholarship programme is targeted at students admitted into specific fields considered critical to national development and the energy sector.
Eligible disciplines include Geosciences, various branches of Engineering such as Petroleum, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical/Electronics, Marine, Chemical, Offshore, Environmental and Renewable Engineering, as well as Petroleum Economics and Law with specialisation in Oil and Gas or Petroleum Law.
Applicants must provide proof of admission into one of the approved disciplines before submission of their application.
Application process to be completed online
Authorities stated that all applications must be completed online through the designated scholarship portal, with no provision for email or physical submissions.
Applicants are required to create accounts on the portal, upload relevant documents, and ensure accuracy of personal information before final submission.
Required documents include a passport photograph, admission letter for postgraduate studies, first degree certificate, NYSC discharge certificate, valid identification, birth certificate, and a signed compliance declaration form.
Interested applicants can submit their applications through the official portal:
https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/thennpcltdnaescholarships2026
Officials advised candidates to carefully review uploaded documents to prevent errors that may lead to disqualification.
Shortlisting and testing procedure
Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in the aptitude test stage of the selection process.
Notifications for the qualifying test will be sent via SMS and email, prompting applicants to ensure that valid contact information is provided during registration.
The company emphasised that submission of an application does not guarantee selection and does not constitute a binding commitment on the part of the sponsoring organisations.
Scholarship seen as major opportunity
Education stakeholders say the NNPC–Agip postgraduate scholarship remains one of Nigeria’s most competitive private-sector education programmes, offering graduates the opportunity to acquire advanced knowledge and international exposure.
Experts noted that with rising demand for specialised skills in engineering, energy, and environmental management, the scholarship could play a significant role in strengthening Nigeria’s technical workforce.
Applicants have been advised to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure compliance with all guidelines before the deadline.
